Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Susan Deason, Executive Director, and Carl Davis, Managing Director of Operations with Memphis Allies, who both discuss the mission and efforts of Memphis Allies, a partnership of nonprofit organizations working together to reduce gun violence in Memphis and Shelby County. During the interview, Susan shares how Memphis Allies was launched in 2021 by the Memphis, Tennessee-based nonprofit, Youth Villages, in response to the significant increase in gun violence in Memphis during that time. Susan and Carl discuss their evidence-informed model, which focuses on community violence intervention and serves individuals at highest risk for involvement in gun violence ages 12 to 35. The model, called SWITCH - Support With Intention To Create Hope - involves a team of individuals, including outreach specialists, life coaches, case managers, and clinical specialists, who work collaboratively to help participants switch their mindset and achieve their goals. The program is typically 12 to 18 months long and has shown early indicators of success, with 90% of participants not receiving an additional gun charge while in service. The organization has over 200 staff members, most of whom have lived experiences that uniquely position them to help change someone's mindset.

Susan and Carl emphasize the importance of community partnerships, support, and collaboration both locally and nationally. They discuss the importance of their work in the community and highlight the complexity of the issues faced, along with the need for empathy and understanding. Susan and Carl talk about the need for volunteers and how volunteers can help identify and engage with the individuals being supported. Carl highlights the daily changes he sees in participants and the importance of relentless effort in this work. They wrap up with how this work is saving lives and how the community can get involved and support their efforts.

Visit https://memphisallies.org or call (901) 252-7900 to learn more and get involved with Memphis Allies.